Lichen planus, is an inflammatory dermatological condition that involves lesions on the skin, mucous membranes, and nails. The cause of lichen planus is often unknown, although it can sometimes be attributed to medications, in which case it is considered drug-induced lichen planus.
Lichen planus is estimated to affect approximately 0.2 to 1 percent of the general population. The most common form of lichen planus is oral lichen planus, which affects the oral cavity and other mucous membranes. It is estimated to affect 1 to 4 percent of the general population, with onset typically occurring between the ages of 30 and 60. Females are more commonly affected by this condition than males.
There are several different forms of lichen planus. Cutaneous lichen planus manifests as lesions on the skin. Mucosal or oral lichen planus affects the oral cavity and other mucous membranes. Lichen planopilaris affects the scalp, lichen planus of the nails affects the nails, and lichen planus pigmentosus is another form of the condition. Additionally, there is drug-induced lichen planus, which is caused by medication and can resemble other forms of lichen planus.
In the treatment of lichen planus, several commonly used medicines are:
Aragwadhadi Kashayam: Aragwadhadi Kashayam is an Ayurvedic herbal decoction that is used to treat various skin disorders, including lichen planus. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties.
Patolamuladi Kashayam: Patolamuladi Kashayam is another Ayurvedic herbal decoction that is beneficial for skin disorders. It helps in reducing inflammation, itching, and redness associated with lichen planus.
Triphalachoornam: Triphalachoornam is an Ayurvedic herbal powder consisting of three fruits: Amalaki (Indian gooseberry), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), and Vibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica). It is commonly used for its detoxifying and rejuvenating effects on the body, including the skin.
Arogyavardhini Vati: Arogyavardhini Vati is a well-known Ayurvedic formulation that is used for various skin disorders, including lichen planus. It helps in detoxification, improving digestion, and strengthening the immune system.
Jathyadi Ghrutam: Jathyadi Ghrutam is an Ayurvedic herbal ghee formulation that is used for the treatment of various skin conditions, including lichen planus. It has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties.